Paraffin wax grafting technique and apparatus

ABSTRACT

A technique and equipment for grafting are disclosed. The technique involves forming a wedge on a scion, forming a cleft or side cut in rootstock, forming a union with the scion and rootstock, binding the union with budding strips, and coating the wrapped union with liquid paraffin wax. Clothespin type clamps are advantageously employed to releasably close the cleft, prior to forming the union, and for securing the union during binding. Grafting tools are provided in a grafting tool kit and include a knife, budding strips, paraffin wax, a brush, a metal cup, hand pruners, whet rocks and honing oil, alcohol and paper towels, and clothespins. The paraffin wax is applied to the bound union in a clear liquid state at 175°-200° F., and preferably at an ambient temperature of at least 38° F. and less than 15 mph winds. The paraffin wax is heated in the metal cup by a stove in region of reduced temperature which is established by a J/C Grafting Adaptor having a standoff element and a platform adapted in use for being assembled to the stove.

This invention relates to plant, especially tree, grafting techniquesand equipment therefor.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Tree grafting techniques traditionally involve forming a union between asucculent sicon having a wedge shaped base portion and stock having acleft, succulent end portion. The scion is inserted into the cleft ofthe stock, with care being given to the alignment of respective growthlayers. A binding, such as a rubber grafting band, is applied evenlyalong the full length of the union to prevent the formation of resinpockets between the cut surfaces. Also, when the contacting surfaces areuneven and not under pressure, air-filled clefts form between stock andscion. The correct binding, and the application of an even pressurealong the full length of the union is of great importance during theknitting of the union. The binding is coated with grafting wax,typically beeswax, to seal the union. Beeswax can be messy andcumbersome to work with. Further steps include covering the graft with aplastic bag so that the graft can develop in an airtight environment.For field grafting, the plastic bag may be covered with a kraft paperbag provided with holes for ventilation on the north side of the bag.

Such grafts as have been described require a high degree of post-graftcare. A minimum of 3-5 cruises through each orchard are required torelease bag grafts, with a good deal of time and expense incurred.

Furthermore, birds often damage grafts covered with foil or plasticbags.

Furthermore, a low graft survival rate requires replanting expensiverootstock that takes time to develop to grafting size. The time andeffort involved to reestablish rootstock for grafts lost is veryexpensive.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, it is an object of this invention to provide a graftingtechnique that is less labor intensive, especially in terms ofpost-graft care.

It is an additional object of this invention to provide a graftingtechnique that results in a high survival rate.

It is an additional object of this invention to provide a graftingtechnique that is best suited to grafting dormant scions and/or stock.

It is a further object of this invention to provide a tool kit that iswell suited to field grafting.

It is yet a further object of this invention to provide a special toolthat is particularly well adapted for use with the grafting technique ofthis invention.

According to this invention, the union between a scion and stock isbound with budding strips, or the like, and covered with a thin layer ofheated paraffin wax. The grafts are made with dormant, rather thansucculent, scions and stock.

As grafts mature, new layers or buds emerge through the thin layer ofparaffin wax. There is nothing more natural. If budding strips are usedto bind the scion and rootstock together, they will need to be loosenedor cut off as new leaves form on the successful graft. The paraffincovering prevents the budding strips from decomposing naturally.

According to an aspect of the invention a tool kit is provided,especially suited to field grafting, and includes a knife, graftingtape, paraffin wax, a brush, wire, I.D. tags, a cup, a whet stone,alcohol, paper towels, a bag for storing scions, pruners andclothespins.

According to a further aspect of the invention a specialized tool, whichmay be in kit form, is provided to adapt to portable backpack type stovein order to provide a region of reduced temperature in contrast to aregion immediately adjacent a burner surface of the stove. This isessential for maintaining the paraffin wax at a preferred temperature of175°-200° F.

Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will becomeapparent in light of the following description thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1 through 4 are illustrative of the steps involved in the graftingtechnique of this invention;

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a scion and stock prepared for graftingaccording to the invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the scion and stock of FIG. 1 forming aunion in an intermediate step in the grafting process of this invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the union of FIG. 2 is a further step inthe grafting process of this invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the union of FIG. 3 in a further step inthe grafting process of this invention;

FIG. 5 is a view, partially in block diagram form and partially inperspective, of the tool kit of this invention;

FIG. 6 is a view of the "J/C Grafting Adaptor" in use on a backpackstove.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the J/C Grafting Adaptor on a backpackstove.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Grafting Technique

FIG. 1 shows a scion 10 and stock, such as rootstock 12, prepared forgrafting. Generally, a base portion 14 of the scion is cut, such as witha knife (shown in FIG. 5), to form a flat, wedge, typically on the orderof 11/4 inches long. The stock 12 is topped, such as with pruning shears(shown in FIG. 5), to form an end surface 16. The knife is then forcedinto the end surface 16 of the stock to split, or bifurcate, an endregion 18 of the stock 12, thereby forming a cleft 19 in the end region.The cleft should be at least as deep, preferably deeper, than the wedge.

More particularly, while holding rootstock 12 for support, make a threeinch (if there is adequate room) vertical cut beginning just below theterminal bud (end surface 16) down into the rootstock pith. A slightlylonger incision into the rootstock prevents a large bulge of the scionfrom being forced into too short a cleft space. Close this cut (cleft19), such as with a clothespin (shown in FIG. 5), to prevent rootstockdesiccation.

In conifers, carefully remove all fascicle bundles and needles from thescion 10. With the back of the grafting back of the grafting knife(shown in FIG. 5), gently scrape off remaining needle parts. Dipterminal bud of scion into heated paraffin wax cup (shown in FIG. 5).The paraffin must be hot enough to go on clear like water.

Beginning just below the scion terminal bud, make a vertical cut on bothsides of the scion to form a wedge 14, with cambium layers exposed.Remove clothespin from rootstock, insert scion into rootstock cut, beingsure to match the cambium layers of the scion to rootstock on a minimumof one side.

It is preferable to select a scion that is equal to or a little largerin diameter to the size of the rootstock being grafted. Scions becomesmaller after removal of needles and fascicle sheaths.

It is also important that the rootstock and scions must be healthy,vigorous, disease and insect free. This applies to all scion androotstock plants.

FIG. 2 shows the scion wedge 14 inserted into the rootstock cleft 19 toform a union 20. At this stage in the grafting process, it isadvantageous to clamp the union 20, such as with the wooden clothespin(shown in FIG. 5), to prevent graft desiccation and scion movement.

FIG. 3 shows a further step in the grafting process of this invention.The union 20 is tightly wrapped with budding strips (also shown in FIG.5), so as to completely cover any otherwise exposed portion of the graftunion. The budding strips are preferably wrapped from the bottom up(i.e., from stock towards scion), and is wrapped in an overlappingspiral pattern. While wrapping the union, it is important to securelyhold the rootstock to prevent scion and rootstock twist. At thecompletion of the wrap, in other words, at the top of the union, thebudding strip is secured, preferably with a half-hitch knot 24. At alltimes during wrapping the union, it is important not to pull the buddingstrip too tightly, else the union may become girdled.

FIG. 4 shows the wrapped union of FIG. 3 being coated with a thin layerof paraffin wax 26. This is a very important step in the graftingprocess of this invention. Preliminary to this step, a block of paraffinwax (shown in FIG. 5) is heated to a clear liquid state. Equipmentsuitable for heating the paraffin wax, especially in the field, is shownin FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 7A-7E.

Returning to FIG. 4, using a bristle brush 28 (also shown in FIG. 5) thewrapped graft union is covered with a clear coating of wax, preferablyby allowing the wax to flow from the brush over the scion and buddingstrip. If desired, an identification (I.D.) tag (shown in FIG. 5) may beapplied to the graft at this point.

The paraffin wax must be maintained at a constant temperature of between175°-200° F. for application to the union. Although a thermometer may beused to determine the wax temperature, the ideal temperature will varysomewhat with ambient conditions (temperature and pressure), and a moreempirical approach can be employed. Simply put, the wax is too cold ifit is tacky or white. A clear liquid state is important to maintain,especially when several grafts are to be performed over several hours.Apparatus is shown in FIGS. 6 and 7A-7E which is best suited to thistask, and will be described in greater detail hereinafter.

The weather is extremely critical in field grafting success. If theambient temperatures falls below 35°-38° F., grafting should be halted.This temperature range may be altered by wind direction, wind speed, andcloudiness. If the wind exceeds 15 mph grafting success may go down.Shielding the graft from the wind as you make necessary cuts can helpprevent graft desiccation. As a rule of thumb, graft fresh dormantscions onto rootstock 1-4 weeks prior to bud break; immediately beforeif possible for best results with dormant scions. Make sure the paraffingoes on clear.

In experimental tests of the grafting technique of this invention,several thousand grafts have been made by the paraffin grafting methodwith an annual average survival rate in excess of 90%. In individualsample batches, survival rates approaching 100% have been obtained. Incomparison, several thousand plastic bag/paper bag grafts have averaged67% survival annually. Paraffin wax grafting averaged 25% bettersurvival annually, at about one-fourth of the final cost. All graftswere made in the field at 30'×30' spacing.

Additionally, with the paraffin wax graft technique of this invention,post-graft care is virtually eliminated.

It has also been found that, with the present inventive technique,orchards are established 75% sooner with flower production moved forwardby 2-3 years due to increased graft survival.

Paraffin wax grafting efficiency is attributable largely to the virtualelimination of post-graft care. Except for loosing budding strips, etc.,grafts mature naturally and elongate through the paraffin when ready, nobags or foil to inspect and remove. If bags or foil covers are releasedtoo soon, grafts can desiccate and tender foliage can be killed.

It has been found that bed grafts can also be done faster and also moreefficiently. Paraffin wax grafting works equally well on fruit, nut andcitrus plants. With the exception of after care to prune back rootstock,tally grafts, and loosen budding strips (if used), post-graft care usingpraffin wax is eliminated. Heated paraffin wax covered grafts maturenaturally, and graft burn to early release is eliminated.

The paraffin wax grafting technique of this invention can besuccessfully utilized on any type of hardwood or conifer dormant grafts.The technique was developed primarily for southern conifers but can bemodified to cover all species.

Tool Kit

The following tools are used to perform the graft of this invention.Some are more applicable to field grafting than to bed grafting:

a) Sharp grafting knife 30.

b) 8 inch×3/8 inch degradable rubber budding strips 31. (May prefertacks, grafting tape, etc.)

c) Paraffin wax 32, shown melted as 26 in FIG. 4 (Gulf Brand workswell). Keep wax clean and free of debris.

d) I.D. tags 33 where applicable.

e) 3/4 inch Prager pure bristle artist brush 34 (attach small copperwire 35 to keep brush off bottom of wax cup 36).

f) A one-cup size aluminum measuring cup 36.

g) Medium hard-hard whet rocks 37 and honing oil 38 for sharpeningknife.

h) Alcohol 39 and paper towels 40 for sanitation.

i) Wooden clothespins 41, mentioned hereinbefore for holding scion androotstock together while wrapping together.

The preceding items 30-41 all fit nicely in a bag 42. The followingitems, not shown, are also useful in performing grafts. A nail apronworks well to carry budding strips, tags, extra paraffin, etc. to field.Hand pruners are a necessity.

FIG. 6 shows a stove 50, J/C Grafting Adaptor 52 (described in greaterdetail hereinafter) and a cup 36, for melting the wax 32. In the field,a reliable, portable, stove, such as a backpack stove, is required toheat the paraffin wax. It is advantageous if a multifuel stove isemployed. A suitable stove is the Peak One marketed by Coleman. Thisstove will simmer for several hours. The paraffin wax is heated,preferably with the apparatus disclosed hereinafter, and should reach atemperature of 175°-200° F. before grafting dormant cuttings. A candythermometer (not shown) can be used to check paraffin temperature foraccuracy. Depending on ambient temperature, paraffin wax must be clearwhen brushing onto scion and rootstock with the bristle brush. Theparaffin cup may be lowered or raised via the J/C Grafting Adaptor 52 tomaintain the correct temperature range. It is preferable to keep theparaffin cup at 3/4 full. A plastic bag (not shown) may also be providedto fit folded within the enclosure bag 42 for carrying scions.

J/C Grafting Adaptor

In addition to the tools mentioned above, a J/C Grafting Adaptor(spacer) 52 has been created for fitting to the stove. The adaptorspaces the aluminum cup 36 away from the burner surface of the stove 50,making it easier to maintain the rather moderate (175°-200° F.)temperature required to maintain the paraffin wax in a clear, liquidstate without boiling. FIG. 7 shows the adaptor kit 52.

FIG. 7 shows the Coleman Peak One multifuel stove 60 (50 in FIG. 6). Thestove has a base 62 and a burner surface 64. The stove 60 isconveniently mounted to a base plate 66 via three screws 68 insertedthrough three corresponding lugs 69 on the base 62 of the stove. Thebase plate 66 can be a block of wood, circular in plan section (notshown), or can be formed as a one-ended cylinder of sheet metal, such asof 14 gauge steel. The J/C Grafting Adaptor, described more particularlywith respect to FIG. 7 is adapted in use for being assembled to abackpack type stove 60 for providing a region of reduced temperature incontrast to a region of higher temperature immediately adjacent theburner surface 64 of the stove 60.

FIG. 7 shows a tubular standoff element 70, which may be formed of mildsteel, stainless steel or aluminum. The standoff element 70 iscylindrical and has two open ends 72 and 74. Typical dimensions for thestandoff element 70 are 41/2 inches in diameter and 5 inches long. Thediameter is chosen such that the one end 72 of the standoff element 70is readily affixed to a peripheral portion of the burner surface of thestove. To this end a small hole 76 is provided in the standoff element70 to accept a screw 76'.

The standoff element 70 further includes vent means, such as an opening78 in the surface of the standoff element 70, for admitting air to theburner of the stove and for allowing heat from the stove to be directedaway from the region of reduced temperature at the opposite end 74 ofthe standoff element. The opening 78 is preferably adjacent the one endof the standoff element 70. A suitable dimension for the opening 78 istwo inches around the circumference of the standoff element and twoinches high.

The J/C Grafting Adaptor also includes a platform 80 for receiving anelement, such as the cup 36, to be heated by the stove in the region ofreduced temperature adjacent the opposite end 74 of the standoff element70. The platform is generally a flat circular metal plate of similardiameter as the standoff element 70, and is adjustably fitted to theopposite end 74 of the standoff element 70 in the following manner.

Two parallel legs 82 extend from a bottom surface 84 of the platform atdiametrically opposed points near its periphery. The legs 82 may beformed of 1/4 inch round metallic stock, 41/8 inches long, and brazed tothe bottom surface of the platform. The standoff element 70 includes twocinch blocks 86 disposed at diametrically opposed positions about theopposite end 74 of the standoff element 70. The blocks 86 are providedwith holes 88 therethrough for receiving axially the platform legs 82,and are provided with set screws 90 extending perpendicularly fromexterior the blocks 86 to the holes 88 therein to releasably retain thelegs 82 in a range of positions whereby the spacing between the platformand the opposite whereby the spacing between the platform and theopposite end 74 of the J/C Grafting Adaptor element can be varied toadjust the temperature in the region of the platform 80. As shown, theblocks 86 can be disposed on the interior surface the opposite end 74 ofthe standoff element 70, in which case the set screws 90 extend throughthe surface of the standoff element 70 into the holes 88. However, theblocks, or clamp means, could be disposed on the exterior surface of thestandoff element 70, in which case the diameter of the platform 80 wouldneed to be larger than the diameter of the standoff element 70.

The platform 80 is provided with a central hole 92 for receiving the cup26. Preferably the cup is tapered, for instance from an outside diameterof 13/4 inches at its base to 3 inches at its opening, in which case asuitable dimension for the platform hole 92 would be 23/4 inches. Meansother than the hole 92 could be provided to receive other elements to beheated in the region of reduced temperature defined by the platform 80as spaced from the opposite end of the standoff element 70. Acylindrical metal sleeve 94 extends downward from the hole 92, about oneinch, and may have a bottom, as indicated by the dashed line 96.

The J/C Grafting Adaptor also includes a handle 100, preferably ofmetal, adapted to be fitted to the tabular standoff element 70. Thehandle 100 is generally U-shaped, having two legs 102 and a centralbight portion 104. An end portion 106 of each leg 102 is bent inwardly,towards a similar end portion of the other legs. These end portions 106are suitably dimensioned to engage by resiliently separation and elasticbehavior two diametrically opposed holes 108 in the surface of thestandoff element 70. Preferably, the holes 108 are adjacent, such as 1/2inch from the opposite end 72 of the standoff element. Conveniently, thehandle-receiving holes 108 in the standoff element 70 are offsetcircumferentially, preferably symmetrically, from the platform legreceiving clamping blocks 86. A suitable dimension for the handle is101/2 inches long, when bent, and a suitable material is 1/4 inchesbrass round stock. The ends 106 should extend into the holes 108approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inches so that the handle does notinadvertently come undone.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of forming a viable union between ascion and stock comprising:a) preparing (forming) a base portion of thescion into a wedge; b) cutting a cleft in a region of the stock; c)inserting the wedge portion of the scion into the cleft of the stock toform a union; d) binding the union with budding strips; e) heatingparaffin wax to a temperature at which it becomes clear liquid, betweensubstantially 175° F. and substantially 200° F.; f) coating the wrappedunion with the clear liquid paraffin wax; and g) in the intervening timeinterval between cutting the cleft (step b) and forming the union (stepc), releasably closing the cleft.
 2. A method according to claim 1wherein the cleft is closed with a clothespin type clamp.
 3. A methodaccording to claim 1 further comprising ensuring that the cambium layersof the scion and stock are aligned on at least one side of the union. 4.A method according to claim 1 wherein the cleft in the stock is deeperthan the wedge portion of the scion.
 5. A method according to claim 1wherein the paraffin wax is heated (step e) to a temperature of175°-200° F.
 6. A method according to claim 1 wherein the paraffin waxis heated (step e) with a portable, backpack type stove.
 7. A methodaccording to claim 7 wherein the stove is equipped with a J/C GraftingAdaptor for establishing a region of decreased temperature as comparedto a region of higher temperature immediately adjacent a burner surfaceof the stove.
 8. A method according to claim 1 wherein the union isformed at an ambient temperature of at least 38° F. and in less than 15mph winds.
 9. The method of forming a viable union between a scion andstock of claim 1 wherein said region is an end region.
 10. The method offorming a viable union between a scion and stock of claim 1 wherein saidregion is a side region.